HBO’s next series, Dragon Housewill shine a light on patriarchy and misogyny through its two main characters, Rhaenyra Targaryen and Alicent Hightower.
The prequel to game of thrones saga takes place three centuries back where the tale will reveal the origins of House Targaryen. It will also describe the rise and fall of the empire which will lead to the civil war called dragon dance. The show is based on George RR Martin Fire & Blood novel.
Rhaenyra (played by Milly Alcock) and Alicent (Emily Carey) are two central figures who would become best friends before being torn apart later as adults.
House Of The Dragon on exploring patriarchy and misogyny
In their interview with Screen RantAlcock and Carey talked about their character dynamics and how they dealt with the misogynistic ways of Westeros.
Carey: “My favorite thing about this show is that, yes, we introduce misogyny and we show how it has affected the women of this world and how it relates to these characters, whether it’s Alicent or Rhaenyra or even Rhaenys. But when you take away the script and the theme of misogyny, these characters still have an arc and are still complex women on screen. They are not just there to serve the purpose and show misogyny; they are human beings on screen.”
Alcock: “I think Rhaenyra is mostly a fighter. She fights for what she wants and she doesn’t like being told no. But I think these two women approach it in completely different ways, and that’s what makes the show quite interesting. Because I think a lot of people can see themselves in Rhaenyra as much as Alicent.”
The subject of the representation of women in Dragon House has become a hot topic in recent weeks. Writer and producer Sarah Hess has previously mentioned that she won’t be portraying violence on screen, which game of thrones was quite infamous for.